Rugby & Bulkington MP Mark Pawsey is backing a life-saving appeal from Cancer Research UK for more NHS cancer staff.
Mark joined campaigners in Westminster last week at the launch of the charity’s new campaign - ‘Shoulder to Shoulder Against Cancer’. He also met with Hillmorton resident Fiona Sewell, Rugby’s Cancer Research UK Ambassador, to discuss what more can be done locally to support those with cancer.
Cancer Research UK’s campaign encourages everyone to stand shoulder to shoulder with the NHS by calling on the UK Government to tackle the chronic shortage of staff who diagnose and treat the disease. For 70 years the NHS has been at the forefront of fighting cancer, but with a growing and ageing population there remains room for improvement to ensure that every patient gets the services which they need.
Cancer Research UK is now urging the UK Government to commit to training and employing more NHS staff to diagnose and treat cancer earlier. Today, 2 in 4 people survive their cancer. Cancer Research UK’s ambition is for this to be 3 in 4 by 2034.
Speaking after the campaign’s launch, Mark said:
“It is great news that more people than ever before are surviving cancer and a real tribute to the hard work of NHS staff who deliver lifesaving treatment every day. As the NHS turns 70 this year, we have an opportunity to build on the progress we have already made and ensure that everyone who has cancer gets the world-class care they deserve.”
Mark continued:
“I have always been a great supporter of the fight against cancer and I was very pleased to join Fiona in backing Cancer Research UK’s call to stand shoulder to shoulder with the NHS against cancer, so that everyone has the best possible chance of surviving this devastating disease.”
Fiona Sewell, Rugby’s Cancer Research UK Ambassador, added:
“As someone who has been impacted by cancer, I have utmost respect for the wonderful work of the dedicated NHS staff who are on the frontline fighting cancer. I’m calling on MPs and the public to support this vitally important campaign because by acting right now, we can improve survival and help make our cancer services among the best world and I am really pleased that Mark took the time to support us last week.”